Flame Tests

IGCSE Edexcel Chemistry
2.45 Flame test procedure
Key Concept: Metal ions produce characteristic flame colors when heated in a clean flame.

Section A: Method

1. Describe the correct method for carrying out a flame test. [4]
2. Why must the wire loop be cleaned with hydrochloric acid? [2]

Section B: Using Results

3. What color flame suggests sodium ions? [1]
4. A flame test gives a lilac color. Which ion is present? [1]

Total marks: 8

Mark Scheme

1. Clean wire, dip in HCl, heat to remove color, dip in sample, place in blue flame [4]
2. Removes contamination so colors are accurate [2]
3. Yellow [1]
4. Potassium [1]